Deciding to find a job and going through all the necessary motions of updating your resume, filling out applications, and setting up interviews can be quite an overwhelming experience. Whether it’s your first summer job, second, or third, here are several helpful tips that will make your search a stress-free one.
Your Resume Speaks Volumes
A resume isn’t usually required for teen jobs but it can help strengthen your chances of getting one. Writing a resume can seem difficult at first, especially if you’re a high school student without much, if any, work experience to put on it. Surprisingly, however, you just may have more information to put on your resume than you think. Even if you don’t have conventional work experience to put onto your resume, you can list other types of jobs like lawn mowing, babysitting, car washing, and volunteering. Proofread your resume to make sure that it is without errors.
Network
Put the word out, as early as possible, that you’re looking for a job. Tell as many adults you know – coaches, guidance counselor, teachers, your parent’s friends, your doctor, the store owner/clerk, etc.. You never know, someone may know someone who may know someone who may be looking for someone to hire.
Dress Up
Dressing appropriately stylish means that you’re serious about getting the job. Even if the dress code is causal for the job you’re applying for, dress as though you are attending a business meeting. Clothes tell a lot about a person’s character.
References
Usually teachers, coaches, parents whose children you’ve baby-sat for, former supervisors where you’ve volunteered, previous employers (if you’ve worked before), and other adults in your community who can vouch for your work ethic and character are the best people to use as references. If possible, ask your references ahead of time if you can list them.
Practice Interviewing
Actual interviews can be somewhat stressful and intimidating. Before going on an actual interview, practice with someone, either a friend or a parent. It is highly recommended, however, that practicing with someone who you may be less comfortable with like a guidance counselor, or a friend’s parent would be more beneficial to you.
Keep an Open Mind
If your ideal job doesn’t look like it’s going to happen, keep an open mind. Don’t turn down the fast food gig, or the dog-walking job that you’re offered. You’re building your resume, remember. Any job on a resume will look better than no jobs on a resume.
Expect “No” Before a “Yes”
Receiving rejection when attempting to land a job is very hard and can sometimes make you feel like giving up, but don’t. Rejection is a part of the process. Keep your eyes on the prize, and always remember that often times many “no’s” come before that great big “yes”.
Try these websites to help you find your summer job:
http://myfirstpaycheck.com/
http://www.groovejob.com/
http://www.snagajob.com/
http://coolsummerjobs.com/
http://www.teens4hire.org/
